Lima 2019 making good progress

The Americas Paralympic Committee’s (APC) and International Paralympic Committee’s (IPC) Co-ordination Commission for the Lima 2019 Parapan American Games has praised the progress made in the Peruvian capital following a series of meetings and visits.

The delegation, led by IPC’s Chief Executive Officer Xavier Gonzalez, visited several venues between 14 and 16 November. They included the Videna Complex where several sports will be contested, and the construction site of the Athletes’ Village in the district of El Salvador.

“I have seen significant progress in all areas since our last visit,” said Gonzalez. “We covered many topics in much more detail than in our previous visits. We are glad to see that the construction of the Athletes’ Village is underway.”

A team of accessibility experts led by Mexican architect Carlos Ramirez revised the venue construction projects together with APC Athletes' Representative Ileana Rodriguez, who provided observations both as an architect and Para athlete.

The Organising Committee, led by its President Carlos Neuhaus, presented reports in regards to sport, broadcasting, ceremonies, communications and marketing, Games services, legacy, medical services, protocol, security, technology, transportation and volunteers.

Gonzalez, Neuhaus and the President of the Paralympic Association of Peru Luisa Villar also visited the Congress of the Republic of Peru on 14 November. They attended a meeting of the Inclusion Commission chaired by Congressman Edwin Donayre.

“We have two more years to continue working hard and make sure that the Parapan American Games contribute to the change in the way people with an impairment are perceived in Peru. We want a real change both in the mindset and in the way of acting,” said Gonzalez after the meeting.

Carlos Neuhaus added: “The Parapan American Games will enable a total change. They will create many benefits for the country, including an accessible infrastructure legacy for the next generations.”

The Lima 2019 Parapan American Games will take place from 23 August-1 September, with a record 1,850 athletes competing in 17 sports, two more than at Toronto 2015.